JSA is an architectural design firm committed to a deep understanding of our client's needs and the buildings they construct. Our mission is to deeply engage with the world around us and to understand the unique, diverse experience of each of our citizens, to design environments that make a positive impact on the lives and communities in which we all live, learn and work.

Since 1980, JSA has distinguished itself with industry defining studios led by professionals with a passion for their craft. Our projects are regionally and nationally recognized for design excellence in Healthcare, Senior Living, Education, Housing, Hospitality, and Interior Design. Geographically diverse, our offices are located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Jacksonville, Florida with clients and projects nationwide.

Design.

JSA's approach to design is deeply rooted in a desire to enrich the lives of those who live, learn, and heal in the environments we create. We believe that the quality of people's experiences, the depth of their interactions as well as their vitality, dignity and wellbeing can be enhanced by architecture that is relevant to their everyday lives and sensitive to their physical and emotional realities. Through our collaborative design process, JSA works diligently to understand our client's mission, the individual needs of the people they serve, and the community in which their projects are realized. Empowered with this insight, JSA produces contextual design solutions tailored to each project's unique goals. Our commitment to enduring design results in architecture that is socially and environmentally sustainable, highly durable and adaptable to changing needs.

Sustainability.

JSA’s commitment to environmental stewardship is custom tailored for each project, providing increased value to building owners, while reducing impact on the environment.

Energy - Critical design decisions start at the very beginning. We analyze site and building variables to set goals. We evaluate options for building configuration, envelope design, system efficiencies and passive opportunities to prudently reduce carbon footprint. JSA has signed the AIA 2030 Commitment, with the goal of prioritizing energy performance and carbon reductions towards Net Zero.

Resilience - Climate adaptation, sustainable methods and resource efficiency are tools we use to enhance project resilience. To prepare for climate adaptation, JSA evaluates design options which best respond to potential environmental scenarios such as extreme weather and sheltering in place. We design for flexibility and endurance through evolving uses, energies, systems and equipment.

Healthy buildings – JSA’s special focus on healthy interior environments looks closely at potential impacts on health by using evidence-based design to evaluate and compare options for materials, equipment and systems. Our EDAC credentialed designers are equipped with the latest research and knowledge to offer solutions for optimal interior living and working conditions.

Studios.

Balanced practice. While we are very proud of the many design awards we have received, we take greater satisfaction in having built a balanced practice that also includes studio expertise supported by strong technical and project management skills, but with versatile talent that can traverse our studio disciplines, providing a broad range of creative ideas and solutions.